When parents separate or divorce in Florida, one of the most sensitive and emotionally charged issues is determining where the children will live and how parenting responsibilities will be shared. While many families can reach an agreement through mediation or negotiation, some custody disputes must be resolved in court. That’s where an experienced Florida child custody litigation attorney becomes essential.
Florida’s Approach to Custody: Time-Sharing and Parental Responsibility
Florida law no longer uses the terms custody or visitation. Instead, the court focuses on time-sharing (the schedule detailing when each parent spends time with the child) and parental responsibility (the authority to make major decisions about the child’s welfare).
The goal is always to promote the best interests of the child, a legal standard that considers multiple factors, that are listed in Section 61.13 of the Florida Statutes which include:
- The capacity of each parent to provide a stable, loving environment
- The child’s emotional, developmental, and physical needs
- Each parent’s willingness to foster a relationship between the child and the other parent
- Evidence of domestic violence, substance abuse, or neglect
- The moral fitness and mental health of each parent
When parents cannot agree on a parenting plan, the court steps in to evaluate the evidence and determine a time-sharing arrangement that serves the child’s best interests. Having an experienced child custody attorney is extremely important.
When Custody Disputes Go to Trial
Custody litigation may be necessary when:
- One parent seeks sole parental responsibility due to safety or fitness concerns
- Parents disagree over relocation or major life decisions affecting the child
- Mediation fails and no agreement can be reached on a parenting plan
- False allegations or manipulation threaten a parent’s relationship with their child.
In these cases, a judge will hear testimony, review evidence, and may consider input from a child custody attorney, guardian ad litem, mental health experts, or school professionals before issuing a final ruling.
The Role of a Florida Child Custody Litigation Attorney
An attorney experienced in Florida custody trials will:
- Develop a tailored litigation strategy that supports your parenting goals
- Prepare and present evidence demonstrating your involvement and stability
- Cross-examine witnesses and challenge inaccurate claims
- Ensure all procedural and evidentiary rules are followed
- Protect your rights and your child’s best interests throughout the process
A skilled lawyer understands not just the law—but also the emotions, family dynamics, and courtroom strategies that drive successful outcomes in contested custody cases.
How to Strengthen Your Custody Case
If you’re preparing for a custody hearing in Florida, you can improve your case by:
- Documenting your parenting role – Keep records of communication, school involvement, and caregiving duties.
- Following all court orders – Compliance shows responsibility and reliability.
- Communicating respectfully – Avoid conflict with the other parent, especially in writing or texts that can be used in court.
- Staying focused on your child’s needs – Judges are most persuaded by parents who prioritize their child’s well-being over personal disputes.
Protecting Your Parental Rights in Florida
Custody litigation can be one of the most stressful experiences for a parent—but it’s also one of the most important. With strong legal advocacy and preparation, you can protect your parental rights and help ensure your child’s future stability and happiness.
If you are facing a contested custody dispute, or need to consult with a skilled child support attorney contact The Law Office of A. Sam Jubran, P.A. to schedule a confidential consultation. Our firm is dedicated to protecting parents’ rights and advocating for the best interests of Florida’s children in and out of the courtroom. Click to review Sam Jubran’s experience and qualifications.